Good morning! Morning Minutes is a round-up of stories that will break today and which we think you'd be interested in.

It appears on weekdays, available by 7am.

Japan PM Abe to make WWII anniversary statement

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will on Friday deliver a closely-watched war anniversary speech, which could dictate its future relations with the country's Asian neighbours. China and Korea, which were victims of Tokyo's brutal march across Asia during World War II, will be scrutinising the speech to see if Mr Abe repeats earlier Japanese apologies for its 20th century militarism.

Mr Abe has said he will uphold past statements about the war, including then-premier Tomiichi Murayama's 1995 landmark "heartfelt apology" for Japan's aggression and colonialism. But his previous remarks and stated desire to look to the future have raised concerns he wants to water down those apologies. Japan surrendered to the Allies on August 15, 1945.

Botanic Gardens to unveil SG50 sculpture

A new bronze and stainless steel sculpture at the Singapore Botanic Gardens will be unveiled today. The 3m high outdoor sculpture by American artist James Surls, titled Fifty Wings, celebrates Singapore's Golden Jubilee. It was donated by Dr Helmut Sohmen of leading shipping company BW Group and his wife, Anna. The event will be graced by the United States Ambassador to Singapore Kirk Wagar and Culture, Community and Youth Minister Lawrence Wong. - TIFFANY FUMIKO TAY

Four to receive President's Scholarship

Four outstanding individuals will receive the President's Scholarship at the Istana this evening. Awarded by the Public Service Commission (PSC), the prestigious scholarship is given to young men and women with strong beliefs in public service, a sound character and dedication to improving the lives of Singaporeans. Candidates for this year's scholarship were interviewed by a selection committee of PSC members headed by chairman Eddie Teo. - PEARL LEE

Tharman to speak at Economic Society's SG50 lecture

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam will speak at The Economic Society of Singapore's SG50 Special Distinguished Lecture tonight. - CHIA YAN MIN

Olam Q2 results to be announced

The management of Olam International will hold a press briefing this morning to unveil its second quarter financial results. - ANNABETH LEOW

The Edge goes to KL court

The High Court in Malaysia is set to decide on Friday whether it would grant The Edge Communications a stay of the suspension order of two publications for three months. The Home Ministry, which suspended the publications last month over their coverage of state fund 1MDB, has asked the court to reject the stay. But the publisher argued it wants to protect and prevent the loss of fundamental liberties enshrined in the Federal Constitution.